Christine shares her journey from spending 20 years as a financial advisor to shifting into wealth coaching after realizing something important – logic alone does not drive financial decisions. A lot of the time, fear is what takes over. 

Together, Lauren and Christine talk through: 

• Why our relationship with money starts earlier than we think 

• How fear and past experiences shape financial decisions 

• The difference between financial planning and wealth coaching 

• Why mindset plays such a big role in how we handle money 

• What scarcity vs. abundance really looks like in everyday life 

• How slowing down decisions can lead to better outcomes 

• The connection between money, identity, and self-worth 

• Why money is not just about numbers, but about behavior 

Christine also explains how she works alongside financial advisors to support clients in a different way. While advisors focus on the numbers, her focus is on the person behind them and what is driving their decisions. 

This episode is a reminder that money is not just a financial topic. It is personal, emotional, and often tied to experiences we may not even realize are influencing us. 

If you have ever felt stressed, unsure, or stuck when it comes to money, this conversation will give you a different perspective.

💼 Connect with Christine Mathieu 

Website: noteadvisor.com 
LinkedIn: Christine Mathieu 

🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast 

Website: staffbuffalo.com 
More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints 

Sheri shares her journey from healthcare and public health into nonprofit leadership, and how that path led her to focus on advocacy, data, and driving real change for women and families across Western New York. 

They get into some big topics, including: 

• Why childcare is one of the biggest barriers facing working families 

• How the current system is failing both parents and providers 

• The reality of women leaving the workforce at higher rates 

• What the data actually shows about pay gaps and opportunity 

• How policy, culture, and systems all play a role in equity 

• The impact of programs like education-to-employment pathways 

• Why representation and leadership still matter more than ever 

Sheri also talks about how the WNY Women’s Foundation uses data to guide everything they do, from advocacy to program development, and why pairing real stories with real numbers is what drives change. 

This conversation touches on work, family, leadership, and the everyday decisions people are forced to make just to keep moving forward. 

If you are a business leader, a working parent, or just someone trying to understand what is really going on in today’s workforce, this episode is worth your time. 

💼 Connect with WNY Women’s Foundation 

Website: wnywomensfoundation.org 

🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast 

Website: staffbuffalo.com 
More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints 

ACSI is a third-party administrator (TPA) specializing in retirement plan compliance, administration, and support for small and mid-sized businesses. Their team helps companies navigate the legal, operational, and regulatory requirements behind retirement plans so business owners can focus on running their organizations. 

Lauren, James, and Kristen discuss: 

• What a Third-Party Administrator (TPA) actually does 

• Why retirement plans are becoming more complex 

• The impact of legislation like Secure 2.0 and New York Secure Choice 

• Why many companies run into compliance problems 

• The role of TPAs in fixing plan issues and avoiding costly penalties 

• Why local expertise and real relationships matter in retirement planning 

• How retirement benefits help companies attract and retain talent 

• The importance of proactive guidance instead of reactive problem-solving 

James also shares his unique career journey, from working in finance in New York City, to returning to Buffalo and eventually becoming President of ACSI. 

Kristen explains how her experience working with retirement plans from the advisor side led her to join the ACSI team and help businesses deliver a true white-glove service experience to their employees. 

If you’re a business owner, HR professional, or financial advisor navigating retirement plan compliance and employee benefits, this episode breaks down the pain points behind retirement planning and how to solve them. 

💼 Connect with ACSI 

Website: https://acsi-ny.com/ 
Email: jbrand@acsi-ny.com 

🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast 

Website: staffbuffalo.com 
More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

Socials: @StaffBuffalo

Carm shares his journey from starting as an intern in 2009 to eventually purchasing the company with his business partner in 2022. What started as “just a job” turned into a career rooted in accountability, compliance, and community. 

Together, Lauren and Carm discuss: 

• The pain points of buying the business you once worked for 

• What national accreditation really means in the background screening industry 

• Why transparency matters — with clients and with your team 

• The real cost of a bad hire (and why screening matters more than ever) 

• Automation, compliance, and how the industry has evolved 

• The importance of consent, privacy, and doing things the right way 

• How strong partnerships (in business and with clients) drive growth 

• Building a team culture rooted in accountability and service

They also dive into the nuances of pre-employment screening, from drug testing to international checks to continuous monitoring. They explain why education and customer service are just as important as the report itself.

If you’re a business owner, HR leader, or hiring manager, this episode offers a practical and honest look at what happens behind the scenes before someone joins your team, and why it matters.

💼 Connect with Metrodata Services & Carm Morreale 

• Website: https://www.metrocheck.com 

• LinkedIn: Carmelo Morreale 

• Social: Metrodata Services 

🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast 

• Website: https://staffbuffalo.com 

• Episodes: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints 

• Socials: @StaffBuffalo

Angela shares her nontraditional path into finance, starting her career in biology and education before finding her calling as a financial advisor. With more than 15 years of experience, a PhD in Leadership and Policy, and a passion for teaching, Angela has built a career around helping individuals, families, and business owners truly understand their finances, not just manage them. 

Together, Lauren and Angela discuss: 

• The pain points of switching careers and trusting the process

• Why financial literacy is missing and desperately needed 

• How intimidation keeps people from asking financial questions 

• Making finance approachable through education, humor, and real-life examples 

• Helping women feel confident in financial decision-making 

• Supporting business owners with employee retention and benefits 

• Why financial wellness matters just as much as compensation 

• Navigating TikTok advice, AI, and misinformation around money 

• The importance of trust, accessibility, and long-term relationships 

Angela also shares how she works closely with HR leaders and business owners to support employees through education, retirement planning, and real-world financial challenges, meeting people where they are, without judgment. 

This episode is packed with insight, warmth, and practical wisdom for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by money conversations or wondered if they were “behind.” 

💼 Connect with Note Advisors & Angela Hall 

• Website: https://www.noteadvisor.com 

• LinkedIn: Angela Hall 

• Email: angela@noteadvisor.com 

🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast 

• Website: https://staffbuffalo.com 

• Episodes: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints 

• Socials: @StaffBuffalo

Christina shares her journey of returning to Buffalo after college, finding her way through nonprofit board service, and ultimately building Horizon’s communications and marketing function from the ground up. Over her 15+ years with the organization, she’s helped Horizon grow from a few hundred employees to nearly 1,000, all while keeping people, culture, and care at the center of the mission. 

Together, Lauren and Christina discuss: 

• The pain points of not knowing your career path, and leaning into learning 

• Why joining boards and committees can open unexpected doors 

• How Horizon supports mental health and substance use care across Western New York 

• The importance of internal culture and employees as brand ambassadors 

• Normalizing conversations around mental health and addiction 

• How storytelling builds trust, reduces stigma, and saves lives 

• Collaborating with community partners to expand access to care 

• Why connection, not perfection, is the foundation of leadership 

Christina also shares powerful stories about community partnerships, family-led advocacy, and Horizon’s 50-year legacy of meeting people where they are. This episode is a reminder that meaningful careers are built through curiosity, compassion, and showing up for others. 

💼 Connect with Horizon Health Services & Christina Pearl 

• Website: https://horizon-health.org/ 

• LinkedIn: Christina Pearl 

• Email: cpearl@horizon-health.org 

🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast 

• Website: https://staffbuffalo.com 

• Episodes: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints 

• Socials: @StaffBuffalo

Amy shares her journey from spending 17 years in corporate America, to hitting a breaking point that led to a life-changing decision she calls a “midlife resign.” From glass ceilings and unmanaged stress to a health scare that forced her to stop and reset, Amy opens up about the moments that ultimately led her to build sayhii, a tech platform designed to help organizations truly listen to and support their people.

Together, Lauren and Amy discuss:

• The pain points of burnout and unmanaged workplace stress
• What it means to choose yourself, even when it’s terrifying
• How fear drives so many workplace behaviors
• Why autonomy, trust, and honest communication matter more than control
• The importance of work-life balance (and how easily it disappears)
• How sayhii checks in with employees daily, and why that matters
• Using technology to reconnect humans, not replace them
• Leadership accountability, real-time data, and supporting employees before they leave
• Why awareness, ownership, and boundaries are essential to wellbeing

This episode is raw, reflective, and incredibly relatable for anyone who has ever felt stuck, unseen, or overwhelmed at work, and wondered if there might be another way.

💼 Connect with sayhii & Amy Gurske

• Website: ⁠https://sayhii.io/⁠
• Email: amy@sayhii.io
• LinkedIn: Amy Gurske

🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast

• Website: ⁠https://staffbuffalo.com⁠
• Episodes: ⁠https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints⁠
• Socials: @StaffBuffalo

Together, we dive into:

• How Care Team Solutions grew from a small start-up into a national brand
• The pain points of starting a staffing agency with no roadmap

• Why recruiting is truly a sales job

• Riding the COVID rollercoaster: explosive growth followed by a massive correction

• Their “hire for character, train for skill” philosophy

• The importance of culture, purpose, and keeping the right people in the right seats

• Their expansion into physician recruiting, locums, and clinical research

• How they use AI as a tool, not as a replacement for human connection

• Why travel nurses stay loyal when recruiters actually listen and support them

• The mental health, financial, and career resources they now provide travelers

Justin and Kyle are honest, thoughtful, and refreshingly transparent about the lessons they’ve learned over 11 years of building a business. If you’re in staffing, healthcare, sales, orentrepreneurship — this is a must-listen.

Connect with Care Team Solutions

• Website: ⁠https://careteamsolutions.com⁠

• Job Board: via their website

• Email: justin@careteamsolutions.com | kyle@careteamsolutions.com

Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast

• Website: ⁠https://staffbuffalo.com

• ⁠Episodes: ⁠https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints⁠

• Socials: @StaffBuffalo

Brittany shares her full story — from agency grind, to in-house roles, to losing her job during COVID, to launching a PR firm in the middle of a lawsuit, raising young kids, and still finding time to give back in a huge way through Girls on the Run.

Together, Lauren and Brittany dive into:

• The pain points of starting a PR firm under pressure
• What crisis communications really looks like behind the curtain
• Why transparency matters more than ever in PR
• How the Baldoni–Lively case changed the communications landscape
• The importance of having the right people around you — legally, professionally, personally
• How Brittany balances motherhood, leadership, and community work
• The power of Girls on the Run, mentorship, and confidence building for young girls
• Why sometimes you just need to “put your shoes on and run” — literally and figuratively

This episode is raw, inspiring, and full of truth about entrepreneurship, resilience, and finding your footing again when life knocks you sideways.

Connect with Brittany Frey & Hays Frey PR

• Website: https://www.haysfreypr.com/
• LinkedIn: Brittany Frey Napierala | LinkedIn
• Email: brittany@haysfreypr.com

Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast

• Website: https://staffbuffalo.com
• Episodes: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints
• Social: @StaffBuffalo on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook & YouTube

Candice shares how she found her niche helping law firms modernize their operations, use data more strategically, and adapt to emerging technologies like AI — all while keeping people at the center. From learning to say “no” to defining your value, her story is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, executives, and anyone navigating growth in a changing industry.

Together, Lauren and Candice discuss:

• The pain points of defining your services and learning where not to spend your time
• How collaboration and trusted partnerships fuel growth
• Why AI is shaking up the legal world — and how to embrace it responsibly
• The power of data hygiene, business intelligence, and smarter systems
• Why business development starts with self-awareness and behavior change
• How mentorship and community involvement can reshape lives

Candice also opens up about her passion for giving back through Big Brothers Big Sisters, sharing how mentorship is transforming lives and building stronger communities.

From law firms to leadership lessons, this episode is all about finding clarity, focusing your energy, and leading with heart.

💼 Connect with Miller Advisory Group & Candice Miller

• Website: https://milleradvisory.group

• LinkedIn: Candice A. Miller

• Email: candice@milleradvisory.group

🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast

• Website: https://staffbuffalo.com

• Episodes: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

• LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @StaffBuffalo

Tom shares how his early passion for economic development led him from Deloitte Consulting in New York City to Buffalo Niagara Partnership, and ultimately back to UB, where he now teaches entrepreneurship and innovation. Through his experience in consulting, business incubation, and education, Tom reveals the real “pain points” of building a meaningful career and a thriving startup ecosystem.

Together, Maggie and Tom discuss:

• The Pain Points of pivoting careers and returning to your hometown
• Lessons from corporate consulting and what they don’t teach in business school
• How UB’s incubator programs have helped create 500+ local jobs
• The most common mistakes new founders make when chasing funding or market fit
• The evolving role of Gen Z in the workforce — and what employers are really looking for
• Why successful entrepreneurs don’t quit their day jobs — they build smart side hustles

From startup growth to student mentorship, this episode highlights how purpose-driven leadership andpractical problem-solving are transforming Buffalo’s business landscape.

Connect with UB School of Management & Tom Murdock   

Website: https://mgt.buffalo.edu

LinkedIn: University at Buffalo School of Management

Email: murdock2@buffalo.edu

Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast

Website: https://staffbuffalo.com

Episodes: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube: @StaffBuffalo

This episode is all about finding purpose, building resilience, and making an impact right where you are.

Heather shares her story of stepping out of a 20+ year career in corporate finance and operations to build a fractional CFO firm from the ground up. From her “day one” moment of realizing there would be no paycheck coming in, to learning how to market herself, network, and rebrand her business, Heather’s journey highlights the many Pain Points of leadership and independence.

Together, Maggie and Heather dive into:

• The Pain Points of starting over and building a business from scratch
• Finding confidence and balance when leaving corporate stability
• Earning trust from long-established business owners and stepping into strategic partnerships
• How fractional CFO work bridges the gap between finance, operations, and growth
• Navigating growth Pain Points — from hiring and scaling to finding the “mini version” of yourself
• Preparing small businesses financially for sale, valuation, or expansion
• The importance of networking, mentorship, and learning from every client

From managing manufacturing and nonprofit clients to helping owners clean up financials, streamline processes, and prepare for the next stage, Heather reveals the behind the-scenes realities of being a trusted financial and operational partner.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn experience into independence, this episode is for you.

Connect with Interlink CFO & Heather Jackson - Fassari

Website: https://interlinkcfo.com

Email: heather@interlinkcfo.com

LinkedIn:  Heather Jackson-Fassari, MBA, CMA, CSCA | LinkedIn

Connect with StaffBuffalo & the Pain Points Podcast

Website: https://staffbuffalo.com

Pain Points Episodes: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/staffbuffalo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staffbuffalo/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Staff716

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@staffbuffalo

Every entrepreneur faces Pain Points — from the fear of leaving a steady paycheck to the growing pains of scaling smart. Tune in to hear how Heather turned those moments into milestones.

Together, Lauren and Allison dive into:

• The Pain Points of transitioning into a CEO role with “big shoes to fill”
• Leading multiple independent offices while balancing autonomy and compliance
• Overcoming communication challenges across teams and locations
• Building trust during leadership transitions and encouraging authentic feedback
• The financial and operational Pain Points of running private practices in a corporate-heavy healthcare landscape
• The power of storytelling through Allison’s Chronicles of a CEO series on LinkedIn

From reimagining billing operations to navigating compliance in pediatric care, Allison reveals how Medical Health Associates has preserved a “private practice feel” while growing into one of the region’s most unique healthcare models.

Connect with Medical Health Associates & Allison Raffaele

Website: WNY's Pediatric Care, Pediatricians | Medical Health Associates of WNY

LinkedIn: Medical Health Associates of WNY

Follow Allison Raffaele on LinkedIn

Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast

Website: https://staffbuffalo.com

Pain Points Episodes: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

LinkedIn: StaffBuffalo

Instagram: @StaffBuffalo

Facebook: StaffBuffalo

YouTube: StaffBuffalo

This episode highlights the reality that every leader has Pain Points, whether it’s filling big shoes, managing communication gaps, or balancing tradition with innovation. Tune in for insights into leadership, healthcare, and building trust in times of transition.

Founded in 2012, Forseti Protection Group was born from the belief that clients deserve more than box-checking and basic protection—they deserve peace of mind. With a team built on military and law enforcement experience, Forseti approaches every challenge with the mindset that security is ultimately built on trust.

In this conversation, Lauren and Mario dive into:

• The Pain Points of reactive vs. proactive security - and why most businesses call after something bad happens
• Innovation over intimidation: how new technology like ballistic doors and biometric access is changing the landscape
• Navigating compliance-heavy industries like cannabis and nonprofits while keeping people safe
• Cybersecurity Pain Points: phishing, scams, AI-driven threats, and human errors that put businesses at risk
• The entrepreneurial journey: payroll panic, proposal turnaround times, SOPs, and scaling across state lines
• Why networking, community, and authentic relationships are just as critical to success as any business strategy

From handling multi-million-dollar security grants to training over 1,000 employees in a week, Mario shares how Forseti has grown into a trusted partner for schools, nonprofits, manufacturers, and national brands. He also gets real about the Pain Points of running a business - wearing too many hats, building the right team, and staying organized under pressure.

Connect with Forseti Protection Group & Mario Rodriguez:

• Website: https://forsetiprotection.com

• LinkedIn: Forseti Protection Group

This episode highlights the reality that everybusiness has security Pain Points and ignoring them can be costly. Tune in for insights into leadership, entrepreneurship, and keeping your organization secure in a rapidly changing world.

Beth shares the evolution of the business her grandmother started—from a small in-home operation to a leading bridal destination that’s focused on experience, inclusion, and authenticity.

Together, they explore the Pain Points of keeping a legacy business relevant, creating space for every bride, and adapting to the ever-changing bridal industry.

This episode covers:      

• The Pain Points of shifting business models after COVID
• Why true size inclusivity means carrying 500+ dresses in sizes 0–40 
• What really goes into customizing a dress for a perfect fit
• The challenges of sourcing quality over quantity in a fast-fashion world
• How Bridal Chateau supports neurodivergent and disabled brides     
• Strategies for standing out in a saturated and highly emotional industry
• Building trust through transparency, education, and hands-on care

Beth gets honest about evolving expectations, pressure from mass-market retailers, and how she balances tradition with progress.

Whether you're a bride, in retail, hospitality, or just love a good family business story, this conversation is full of insight, heart, and real behind-the scenes perspective.

Connect with Bridal Chateau:

Williamsville, NY

https://bridalchateauinc.com

Instagram: @bridalchateau

Appointments preferred – book online or call the shop!

Connect with StaffBuffalo:https://staffbuffalo.com

Career Chats: https://staffbuffalo.com/career-chats

Open Jobs: https://staffbuffalo.com/jobs

Don't miss this episode on how a local bridal shop is redefining confidence, connection, and what it really means to say “yes to the dress.”

Steve shares his cross-country journey from LA film schoolto launching a cleaning company for grow facilities in Colorado, to ultimately returning to Buffalo to build an inclusive and informed cannabis ecosystem. Together, Maggie and Steve dive into the real Pain Points of trying to grow something meaningful in a space that’s still misunderstood: 

• How outdated stigma and public confusion keep people from engaging 
• The hidden hurdles of shadow banning and restricted cannabis marketing 
• Why so many businesses don’t realize they can - and should - serve this industry 
• The challenge of building trust and consistency throughevents 
• How to connect the dots between policy, access, andopportunity 
• Turning small meetups into a real movement of support and visibility 
• Why Buffalo’s cannabis scene needs community more than ever 

Steve also shares real feedback from growers andentrepreneurs whose pain points were solved by just showing up - and why that’s the whole point.

If you're trying to enter the cannabis space, support it, orsimply understand it better, this episode is your invitation in. 

Connect with Steve McMorrow & Buffalo CannabisNetwork: 

Website: https://buffalocannabisnetwork.com 

Instagram: @buffalocannabisnetwork 

Email: steve@buffalocannabisnetwork.com 

Connect with StaffBuffalo & CannaWorkforce Solutions: 

StaffBuffalo: https://staffbuffalo.com 

CannaWorkforce Solutions: https://cannaworkforcesolutions.com 

Career Chats: https://staffbuffalo.com/career-chats 

Open Jobs: https://staffbuffalo.com/jobs 

Lindsay shares his journey from organizing school trips andparties to launching multi-city festivals, community programs, and one of Buffalo’s most dynamic “third spaces.” Together, Maggie and Lindsay dig into the Pain Points of scaling big ideas, sustaining energy, and buildingorganizations that last: 

• The pain points of communicating your mission so everyone “gets it” 
• Fundraising and partnership hurdles in tough economic times 
• Balancing a demanding “day job” with creative pursuits and nonprofit leadership 
• Building authentic relationships that go beyond networking—and why they’re crucial to success 
• Why creatives need both vision and execution to move forward 
• Learning to “marinate” on ideas and focus on what matters most 
• Creating new opportunities for connection and culture in Buffalo’s post-pandemic landscape

Lindsay shares practical advice on navigating setbacks,staying persistent and making real impact through collaboration. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, growing a business, or dreaming up your next project, this episode brings actionable insight from someone who’s been in thetrenches. 

Connect with Lindsay Taylor, His Work, and His Projects: 

• Lindsay Taylor (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindseyltaylor/
• Buffalo PAL: https://buffalopal.com
• Beau Fleuve Music & Arts:@beaufleuvemusicarts 

Don’t miss this real look at the Pain Points—and thepayoffs—of building community, connection, and creative endeavors in Buffalo! 

Danielle shares her journey launching Strokes during the height of the pandemic, from working around the kitchen table to managing 14 crews and opening a dedicated shop. With a commitment to integrity, transparency, and culture, Danielle is redefining what it means to lead in the trades.  

You’ll hear:  

• What it really takes to launch and grow a trades business as a woman  
• The pain points of building trust in an industry full of “Dan in a Van” stories  
• Why culture fit beats experience—and how to hire accordingly  
• How offering PTO, 401(k), and options for career growth change employee retention  
• The benefit of building a business with your values—and your family—at the center  
• This is a powerful conversation between two women-owned businesses working to build inclusive, forward-thinking teams that lead with impact.  

🔗 Connect with Danielle Bickel and Strokes Painting & Contracting  

Website: https://paintwithstrokes.com  

Phone: 1-833-GET-STROKES  

Instagram: @strokespaintingwny  

🔗 Connect with StaffBuffalo (Women-Owned Staffing & HR)  

Website: https://staffbuffalo.com  

Jobs: https://staffbuffalo.com/jobs  

Podcast: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints  

Instagram: @staffbuffalo  

LinkedIn: StaffBuffalo  

YouTube: @StaffBuffalo  

Don’t miss this inspiring look at how women-owned businesses are changing the game—one Pain Point at a time.

From opening a thriving liquor store to opening one of Buffalo’s first fully legal dispensaries, Gina and Taylor share the ups and downs of launching a cannabis business — all while combatting stigma, building customer trust, educating first-time buyers, and managing shifting state regulations. 

We cover: 

• The legacy-to-legal journey and what it really took to launch 
• Pain Points of misinformation, compliance chaos, and stigma 
• How East Leaf educates customers overwhelmed by 500+ brands 
• Creating community connections in a misunderstood environment 
• The reality of vendor selection, inventory decisions, and product variety 
• Competing with the illicit market while staying compliant and transparent 
• Supporting small NYS cultivators and staying rooted in WNY values 
• Building a team that represents the brand — and the community 

Whether you're cannabis-curious, an industry insider, or simply love a great small business story, this episode highlights resilience, grit, and purpose in action. 

📍 Visit East Leaf Dispensary: 

2442 Clinton Street, Cheektowaga, NY 14225 

Shop Online + Order Delivery: 

https://www.eastleafdispensary.com 

Download the East Leaf App on iOS & Android 

COMING SOON: New location opening in East Aurora, NY – Fall 2025! 

Watch the classic 1936 film Reefer Madness: Reefer Madness (1936) Cult Classic | Full Movie | Subtitled 

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposesonly and is not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. 

After leaving the fast-food world (yes, he once ownedmultiple Taco Bell and KFC locations), Tom found himself at a crossroads. With a passion for clean skincare and a desire to do something meaningful, he opened Renew Bath + Body in Buffalo, NY. What started as a storefront soon evolvedinto a full-blown manufacturing operation creating water soluble, zero-waste personal care pods designed to eliminate plastic waste. 

We cover: 

• The personal Pain Points that sparked a skincare revolution 
• The staggering truth: by 2050, there may be more plastic in the ocean than sea life 
• How Renew Bath + Body’s pod-based hand soap and body wash is disrupting outdated models 
• Innovating through failure — and how persistence (and donuts) won over international partners 
• The challenge of educating consumers and creating behavior change 
• Landing top-shelf placement at Wegmans and scaling manufacturing operations in Buffalo 
• Why compostable packaging and refillable dispensers matter more than ever 
• The future of sustainable production and how manufacturing consultants and strategy Shift are helping them scale effectively 

If you care about clean products, plastic-free living, andgame-changing innovation from passionate founders, this episode is a must-watch. 

Explore Products: https://www.renewbathandbody.com 

Learn More: https://www.jfskin.com 

Follow Renew Bath + Body’s journey:

 https://www.instagram.com/renewbathandbody 

Connect with Tom Akers:  Tom Akers | LinkedIn 

📍 Based in WNY? Find Renew Bath + Body's products in 100+ Wegmans locations! 

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe soyou never miss a new Pain Points Podcast episode. 

Dustin shares his journey from labor relations to consultingand reveals the game-changing strategies he uses to help companies identify and resolve the root causes of their biggest Pain Points. You’ll learn how to spot warning signs before they spiral out of control, build a culture whereemployees thrive, and leverage feedback as a powerful tool for growth. 

Ready to stop bleeding talent and start building a winningteam? 

Tune in now for actionable insights and fresh perspectivesthat could transform how you do business. 

🔗 Connect with Dustin Snyder 

🔗 Discover StaffBuffalo’s Recruiting andHR Services 

From early beginnings in public accounting to traveling the globe with Praxair/Linde, Elle shares her journey through corporate growth, imposter syndrome, burnout, boundary-setting, and ultimately rediscovering purpose in mission-driven nonprofit work. 

Topics covered include: 

• Finding your career path through internships and networking 
• Navigating Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance and global mergers 
• Identifying the moment when your Pain Points signal a needed change 
• Transitioning from Public Accounting to private sector to nonprofit sectors 
• Setting healthy workplace boundaries (hello, Desk Day Fridays!) 
• Aligning your career with your Life Vision 
• The unique financial and philanthropic operations of the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo 

This episode is for every professional who's ever questioned their trajectory, battled burnout, or tried to balance passion and practicality. Don’t miss Elle’s wisdom about becoming your best advocate, recognizing the signs of change, and embracing your own unique “green zone”!

Connect with Elle: 

Learn more about the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo 

Follow Ellen Musialowski on LinkedIn 

From Monkeys to Marijuana – Melissa takes us on her unique career path from biological research in Panama to farming in Northern California, where her hands-on work with organic crops and cannabis ignited a passion that brought her back to New York to educate the next generation. 

The Legalization Learning Curve – Discover the real-life struggles of cannabis farmers navigating the harsh realities of compliance, taxation, and limited financial resources in the post-legalization world. 

Building a Cannabis Curriculum – Learn how SUNY Niagara’s cannabis program is providing hands-on experience in cultivation, processing, and culinary applications, setting students up for success in this growing industry. 

Key Pain Points Discussed: 

• The emotional and financial toll of legalization on legacy growers 
• The differences between California and New York cannabis regulations 
• Why small cannabis businesses face steeper barriers than other startups 
• How educational institutions are stepping in to bridge the gap 

Whether you're in cannabis, education, agriculture, orpolicy, this episode is packed with personal insight, professional growth, and thought-provoking conversation around the real Pain Points of the cannabis industry. 

🎓 Learn More About SUNY Niagara’s Cannabis Program: https://niagaracc.suny.edu/academics/cannabis/ 

Janna takes us on a journey from her unexpected start in the art world, beginning with navigating her college major, to discovering her passion for paper art, and finally building a thriving art business in Buffalo, NY. 

We discuss: 

• The challenges of becoming an artist and the journey of self-discovery 
• The pain points of starting and managing a sustainable art business 
• The importance of community connection and social work in art 
• How Papercraft Miracles differentiates itself by creating unique, handmade paper art 
• The behind-the-scenes reality of running a business and balancing work-life demands 
• Tips for aspiring artists on turning their passion into a sustainable business 

Want to bring some magic into your life?

Explore Papercraft Miracles for custom handmade paper art, unique gifts, and more! 

Find Janna and Papercraft Miracles: 

Visit the Studio: 1888 Niagara St. Buffalo, NY 14207 

Website & Custom Orders: papercraftmiracles.com 

Follow on Instagram: @papercraftmiracles 

Book a Custom Art Piece: papercraftmiracles.com/custom-orders 

Subscribe & Follow Pain Points Podcast for more expert insights into entrepreneurship, business challenges, and industry deep dives! 

Melissa takes us on a journey from her unexpected start in the wine industry—beginning as a nanny, to discovering her passion at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, and finally building a thriving wine business in Buffalo, NY.  

Episode Highlights:  

• The challenges of becoming a sommelier and the rigorous certification process  
• The pain points of starting and managing a niche winebusiness  
• The importance of terroir, how to truly taste wine, and why there’s no wrong way to enjoy it  
• How Winkler & Samuels differentiates itself by curating unique, small-batch wines  
• The behind-the-scenes reality of running a business with a spouse and balancing work-life demands 
• Tips for choosing better quality wines, avoiding headaches, and understanding the difference between Champagne & Prosecco  

Want to take your wine knowledge to the next level?  

Join Winkler & Samuels’ Wine Club for hand-selected bottles, expert pairing recommendations, and a one-of-a-kind experience delivered to your door!  

Find Melissa and Winkler & Samuels:  

Visit the Store:  500 Seneca St, Buffalo, NY  

Website & Wine Club Info: https://winklerandsamuels.com/  

Follow on Instagram:

 https://www.instagram.com/winklerandsamuelswine/  

Book a Wine Class: 

https://winklerandsamuels.com/collections/wine-class  

Visit StaffBuffalo Website: https://staffbuffalo.com/  

 Subscribe & Follow Pain Points Podcast for more expert insights into entrepreneurship, business challenges, and industry deep dives! 

Pain Points We Tackle in This Episode: 

• Why businesses get stuck – and how to break free 
• The #1 excuse that kills growth (and how to overcome it) 
• Culture vs. Strategy – which one really matters more? 
• The truth about employee engagement and workplace morale 
• How to be a better leader and make real business impact 

Guest Information:

Check out Larry’s book: We Tried That Once: https://a.co/d/ckbfQ22 

Follow Larry Mietus:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrymietusspeakingofstrategy/

Website: https://speakingofstrategy.com/

🎧 Hit LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into real business struggles and solutions! 

In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Schellinger, VP/Regional Relationship Manager at Impressia Bank to discuss the financial roadblocks women-owned businesses encounter, the funding gap in traditional banking, and how relationship-based banking can be a game changer. Women are underfunded, underserved, and underestimated—but they’re also powerful economic drivers when given equal opportunities. 

Join us as we explore the highs and lows of Sam's career, the lessons learned, and the strategies he used to navigate through various Pain Points. You’ll learn how the lessons from his past roles are informing his current work and discover the strategies he uses to turn challenges into opportunities.

With over 5 years at Nacre Consulting, Mike has worked with diverse companies—from startups to enterprises exceeding $100M in revenue—spanning industries like SaaS, Manufacturing, Professional Services, and Telecommunications. He brings decades of hands-on experience in sales management, customer experience design, and leadership coaching.

Join us as Mike unpacks real-world solutions to business challenges, including how to build sales playbooks, design effective growth strategies, and create a company culture that fosters continuous development. His actionable insights will provide you with the tools you need to overcome your company’s growth obstacles and unlock its full potential.

Sondra shares her journey through the highs and lows of B2B sales, digital gifting, and entrepreneurship. We dive deep into the Pain Points that have defined her path, from balancing multiple roles to driving innovation in a competitive market. Discover how she overcame these challenges to deliver exceptional results across industries. 

Whether you're a seasoned professional in B2B sales, a budding entrepreneur, or someone looking to understand how to navigate the complexities of modern marketing, this episode is for you. Sondra offers actionable insights on how to turn Pain Points into avenues for growth and innovation. Learn from her experience in building successful teams, driving sales, and fostering collaboration across various industries. 

As a visionary in technology management, Bill has successfully led teams through the intricate process of product development and technology deployment across various industries. His ability to identify and overcome Pain Points has been instrumental in his journey from a Junior Developer to a Chief Technology Officer, and now as a Fractional CTO for forward-thinking companies like Favordrop and Edgeli, Inc. 

Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a business leader, or someone navigating the challenges of growth and innovation, this episode offers invaluable insights into turning Pain Points into powerful solutions. 

As we explore Len Morrissey's career path—from banking at institutions like Citizens Bank, Bank of America, and TD Bank, to leading RAPID_ to a successful sale—we uncover the hidden challenges behind major growth phases. We also dig into how Morrissey Metcalfe and Associates helps small-to-medium businesses tackle some of their biggest Pain Points in securing funds and achieving sustainable growth.

Nicholle Overkamp is the visionary and founder of Wilcox Financial Group LLC and The MoxAi Co., two dynamic companies that are reshaping the way we think about financial empowerment and AI-enhanced business coaching. With a strong commitment to transparency, integrity, and expert execution, Nicholle has dedicated her career to helping individuals and businesses overcome their own Pain Points to achieve success.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with actionable insights, real-world examples, and the wisdom of a leader who has turned every Pain Point into a steppingstone for success. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or simply looking to level up your life, this episode is packed with value for you.

Tune in to gain insights, find inspiration, and learn how industry leaders navigate their Pain Points to achieve success. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more engaging content!

Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or legal professional, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips for navigating the complex world of business law. Don't miss this engaging conversation with one of the leading voices in the field!

Whether you're an aspiring leader in the IT sector, an entrepreneur facing startup challenges, or simply interested in how innovative companies like ETG overcome obstacles, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world examples.

Ryan’s path to success is nothing short of inspiring. As a certified Financial Planner professional, he has built a career by offering tailored financial advice and written plans to business owners, high-net-worth individuals, and professionals like physicians and dentists. But like any great success story, Ryan’s journey wasn’t without its Pain Points. Ryan navigates the complexities of scaling a business and the critical decisions that drive growth. He also emphasizes the importance of setting high expectations to ensure you attract the right talent for your business. Lastly, he discusses balancing talent gaps with client satisfaction, ensuring that both client needs, and business objectives are met effectively. 

If you’re looking to gain valuable insights on wealth management, business development, and overcoming your own hiring hurdles, this episode is a must-watch!

We explore how Milestone is transforming post-settlement solutions and streamlining mass tort distribution for law firms with their groundbreaking Pathway platform.

Pathway is restoring transparency in the legal process, bridging the gap between claimants and law firms.

Tune in to learn how Milestone is turning Pain Points into opportunities and paving the way for a more efficient future in legal settlements!

Tune in as we share insights, tips, and strategies to help you streamline your recruitment process and leverage technology to attract top talent more effectively. Whether you're a seasoned recruiter or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable information to enhance your recruitment toolkit!

This conversation highlights the potential of cannabis as an alternative to opioids and other pharmaceuticals, the ongoing fight against stigma, and the dedication required to establish a cannabis business. Dr. Jackie calls for continued education and research to shift public perceptions and deepen the understanding of cannabis' medical benefits. 

During this episode, we discuss several pain points in the cannabis industry, including strategies for marketing oneself and one's business, the challenges of starting a business in the cannabis space, and the vital role of small mom-and-pop, legacy cannabis businesses in competing with larger organizations. Emphasizing the importance of knowing one's audience for successful advertising, Missy advocates for a less formal and more fun and authentic approach, ensuring resonance and connection with consumers. 

Join us as we explore these pressing topics with Missy within the cannabis culture. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, or treatment.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, or treatment.